Hit and run crash leaves deputy with minor injuries

CHARLOTTE COUNTY - Florida Highway Patrol troopers are searching for a suspect, causing a crash into a Charlotte County deputy's vehicle, and fleeing the scene.

Troopers say 24-year-old Deputy Matthew Chandler was traveling westbound on Midway Boulevard in Port Charlotte Saturday night just before 6:30 with emergency lights activated, when the driver of a silver 4–door passenger vehicle made a left turn from Aaron Street onto Midway Blvd.

Deputy Chandler swerved off the road and crashed into a fire hydrant, street light, and fence to avoid colliding with the vehicle.

Troopers said the vehicle stopped momentarily, then fled the scene, heading north on Midway Boulevard.

Deputy Chandler was transported to Bayfront Hospital with minor injuries.

Anyone with information is asked to contact FHP immediately 239-938-1800.